Ogiame Atuwatse III 5th Anniversary: Oborevwori Calls for Peace, Unity Among Warri Ethnic Groups

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged the various ethnic nationalities in Warri to protect the peace, unity and harmonious coexistence that have characterised the city and its environs over the years.

The Governor made the appeal on Friday during the celebration of the fifth coronation anniversary of the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, whom he described as a peace-builder and an exemplary traditional ruler committed to the development of Warri, the Itsekiri people and Delta State.

Oborevwori, who commended the Olu for what he described as five years of impactful leadership, said the monarch’s reign had brought renewed glory, peace-building initiatives and development to the Warri Kingdom.

According to the Governor, Ogiame Atuwatse III had demonstrated uncommon leadership by supporting initiatives aimed at promoting peace, unity and development across Warri and Delta State.

He said the monarch had shown particular interest in the development agenda of his administration and had consistently supported projects and initiatives designed to improve the lives of residents.

“The Olu is a cerebral monarch, a peace-builder and an exemplary leader—a man of grace who leads from the front. He has an undying passion for the progress of not just Warri but the entire Delta State,” Oborevwori said.

The Governor recalled the monarch’s role during the visit of his administration to the Itsekiri nation, noting that Atuwatse III had openly endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration, as well as the state government.

Oborevwori said the monarch’s commitment to development was also evident in his support for infrastructure projects, particularly the Ode-Itsekiri Road, which he said had been completed alongside more than 15 bridges.

He disclosed that the project would soon be commissioned, adding that the Olu’s efforts in showcasing the completed road had helped demonstrate the impact of the state government’s infrastructure development agenda.

The Governor recalled a video of the Olu riding a scooter on the completed section of the road, describing the gesture as significant because it showcased the transformation of an area that had previously been considered difficult to access.

Oborevwori said the fifth coronation anniversary was therefore not only a celebration of a traditional milestone but also an opportunity to reflect on the Olu’s leadership and contributions to the development and peaceful coexistence of the people.

The Governor subsequently made a passionate appeal to all ethnic nationalities in Warri to preserve the peace and unity that had existed among them for generations.

He noted that the different ethnic groups had lived together peacefully for centuries and urged residents not to allow inflammatory statements, divisive rhetoric or other actions to undermine the prevailing peace.

Oborevwori called on traditional rulers, community leaders, youths and residents across the various ethnic groups to continue working together to ensure that Warri remains peaceful and conducive for development and investment.

He stressed that sustainable development could only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, urging all stakeholders to place the collective interest of Warri and Delta State above divisive tendencies.

The Governor’s message formed a major highlight of the fifth coronation anniversary celebration of Ogiame Atuwatse III, which attracted prominent political leaders, traditional rulers, government officials and other dignitaries.

Among those present were Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu; Senator Joel-Onowakpo; Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; a representative of the Minister of Aviation; members of the Delta State Executive Council; security commanders; royal fathers from across Nigeria and other distinguished guests.

In his “Speech from the Throne”, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, attributed the achievements recorded during his five-year reign to God, describing the progress associated with the throne as a manifestation of divine grace.

The monarch said the impact of his reign extended beyond the Itsekiri nation, stressing his commitment to promoting excellence in Nigeria’s traditional institution and preserving the country’s cultural heritage.

He expressed appreciation to Governors Oborevwori and Sanwo-Olu, government officials, traditional rulers, communities, organisations and other guests for honouring his fifth coronation anniversary and for their support and prayers.